Jewelry Shape Template – Bezel Template Oval 2
Easily create a neat and even setting for oval stones with the Cool Tools Bezel Template Oval 2. This transparent plastic template is specially designed for accurately setting oval stones in silver clay and other types of metal clay.
The template helps you determine both the correct opening for the stone and the outer dimensions of the setting. For each stone size, you can choose between two different wall thicknesses. This creates an even amount of clay around the stone without having to measure or calculate the outer dimensions yourself.
Because the template is transparent, the stone remains clearly visible while you work, making it easy to position the opening accurately around the stone.
Instructions
First determine the size of the stone using the template. For each stone size, you can choose between two different wall thicknesses.
Roll or press the clay to approximately the same thickness as the height of the stone.
Place the template on the clay and first cut out the opening for the stone. Make sure to cut straight down, for example with a fine needle tool. Follow the oval shape slowly and smoothly for the most accurate cut possible.
Place the stone into the cut-out opening. Then use a transparent rolling plate or one of your thickness guides to gently press the stone into the clay until the top of the stone is level with the surface of the clay. This also allows you to check that the stone is sitting straight and at the correct height.
Next, place the template over the stone again and select the corresponding opening for the desired wall thickness. Leaving the stone in place while cutting helps support the clay and reduces distortion.
Using a fine needle tool, carefully cut along the inside edge of the selected opening. Cut as straight down as possible so that the sides of the setting remain straight and even. Move the needle slowly and smoothly around the curves of the oval shape for a neat and accurate result.
Remove the template and carefully remove the excess clay from around the setting. You will now have an oval setting with an even amount of clay surrounding the stone.
Allow the clay to dry completely before refining the setting. Once dry, the sides, curves and top can be carefully finished with a file, sanding pads or sandpaper.
Important
The stone helps support the clay and prevents distortion while cutting. However, it is still important to work carefully and cut as straight down as possible. With an oval setting, pay particular attention to following the curves evenly so that the shape remains symmetrical and the finished setting looks neat and balanced.
Before you begin, always check that the stone you are using is suitable for firing with your chosen metal clay. Not all stones can withstand the temperatures used during firing.
Second Method: Building a Bezel Pendant from Two Parts
Using the same Bezel Template, you can also build a bezel pendant from two separate pieces. Roll out the clay and use the template to cut a matching oval backplate and a separate bezel frame. Carefully remove the excess clay and allow both pieces to dry. Once dry, refine the pieces as needed and then join them together using paste.
For an extra decorative effect, you can add a pattern or texture to the backplate using a stamp mat or texture mat before cutting it out. This creates a decorative base that, after firing, can also be combined with resin or enamel.
Features
- Specially designed for creating settings for oval stones.
- Suitable for silver clay and other types of metal clay.
- Multiple openings for different stone sizes.
- Choice of two wall thicknesses for each stone size.
- Helps create an even and symmetrical setting.
- Transparent for accurate positioning.
- Made from thin and flexible plastic.
- Reusable and easy to clean.
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced metal clay artists.
- Made in the USA.
Contents
1 transparent Cool Tools Jewelry Shape Template – Bezel Template Oval 2.
